Interpreter

Tasks & duties

Interpreters may do some or all of the following:

• listen to speakers over the telephone or face-to-face and repeat what is said in the required language/sign language
• interpret written documents or audio/visual media into spoken language/sign language
• travel with or guide tourists who speak another language
• consult dictionaries and other reference sources to find the accurate meaning of words and terminology
• preparatory research
• interpret simultaneously (while the person is speaking) or consecutively (after the person has spoken)

Specialisations

Interpreters may choose to specialise in the areas of court interpreting or sign language interpreting, or in particular languages or subjects, such as medical or legal areas.

Skills & knowledge

Interpreters need to have:

• an understanding of at least two languages
• an understanding of different cultures
• a high level of written and spoken English
• knowledge of the code of ethics for an interpreter
• knowledge of different interpreting techniques
• an understanding of the terminology specific to their assignment (this may include medical, business and legal terms)
• good listening and interpreting skills
• good memorising and concentration skills
• the ability to analyse information quickly

Knowledge of the Maori language may also be useful for interpreters in New Zealand.

Entry requirements

To become an interpreter you need to be fluent in two or more languages and must also undergo a basic interpreting training course. A postgraduate degree is preferred by many employers and you may be required to sit a proficiency test before you can work.

A Diploma in Sign Language Interpreting or an equivalent overseas qualification is needed to become a sign language interpreter. People who want to complete this diploma course need to have prior knowledge of New Zealand Sign Language.

Secondary education

A tertiary entrance qualification is preferred to become an interpreter. Useful subjects include English and languages.

Training on the job

Interpreters gain many of their skills on the job. They usually attend workshops, seminars and conferences to keep up to date with interpreting techniques and memory training. Sign language interpreters may also attend courses on educational interpreting, deaf/blind interpreting, and minimal language skill interpreting (signing for deaf people with few sign language skills).

Useful experience

Useful experience for interpreters may include:

• work with other cultures or new migrants
• work in professional sectors, such as law enforcement, scientific, legal, technical or medical environments
• living and working overseas, such as going on a student exchange programme
• language study

Related courses

English Language
Foreign Languages
Linguistics
Te Reo Maori
Translating and Interpreting

For more information, please refer to Career Services.